Looking for a way to get out on the water this trip? We’ve got you covered! Marco Island sits right at the edge of the Ten Thousand Islands and the Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, 110,000 acres of protected mangrove estuary that’s home to some of the best wildlife-watching in Southwest Florida.
What You’ll See
Local operators run family-friendly eco tours through these waters, and bottlenose dolphins are the star of the show — many boats work with crews who photo-ID and catalog the resident pods, so you might even learn a dolphin’s name. Depending on the season, keep an eye out for manatees, sea turtles, and shorebirds like herons, ospreys, and pelicans too.
More Than Just Dolphins
Most tours make a stop at an uninhabited barrier island for shelling or a swim, so pack a bag for whatever you find. It’s an easy, low-key way to spend a morning that works for grandparents and toddlers alike.
Book the Water, Book Your Stay
A morning on the water pairs perfectly with an afternoon back at the pool or the beach. Browse our Marco Island vacation rentals or see everything available island-wide to plan the rest of your trip.
